Plans underway for aquatic sensory experience at Christchurch’s Metro Sports Facility

Plans for a high-tech aquatic sensory experience are underway at Christchurch City Council’s Metro Sports Facility. The Aquatic Sensory Experience will offer innovative stimulation options to support well-being and development for all ages and abilities.

Set to open in 2022, the Metro Sports Facility will be the largest aquatic and indoor recreation and leisure venue of its kind in New Zealand, accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

Christchurch City Council Head of Recreation, Sports and Events, Nigel Cox advises that the positive community feedback to the Southern Centre and the Aquatic Sensory Experience has been overwhelming.

“These special sensory facilities activate the imagination, stimulating activity and helping to realise the potential of people with a range of abilities to be more resourceful and independent.”

For eight-year-old Jonty Smolenski – who has a very rare genetic disorder. Trichothiodystrophy, that causes multiple, challenging physical problems and affects his ability to recover from any illness  - the Christchurch City Council’s Southern Centre at the Pioneer Recreation and Sport Centre has allowed him to explore a unique space independently and revel in the sights and sounds within a safe, interactive environment.

The centre’s technology helps stimulate senses and can be adapted to meet individual needs.

In 2019/20, it welcomed 7537 people – most with disabilities.

Jonty’s parents, Sam and Maree Smolenski, say their son is “never without a smile when exploring all the bits and bobs” at the centre. Jonty plays with everything, and his confidence levels continue to climb as he becomes more comfortable in a very special sensory environment.”

Jonty’s teacher, Gail Sharman advises “the centre helps Jonty learn and process, providing that vital extra stimulation in an amazing and easily accessible environment for those with very unique needs.”

The Southern Centre is open Monday to Sunday, with bookings required. It mostly benefits those with learning differences, cerebral palsy, autism, multiple disabilities and anxiety.

For more information on The Southern Centre go to ccc.govt.nz/rec-and-sport/rec-and-sport-centres/southern-centre

Image top: Christchurch City Council Southern Centre sensory space